South County Mail

Missouri and the World

Culture

More older Americans are staying in work – and facing criticism for it

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Americans are working later into life than previous generations, driven by a mix of financial pressures, longer life expectancy and changing ideas about retirement.

But new research suggests older workers increasingly face a contradictory cultural message: stay active and productive as you age – but also know when to “step aside.”

An analysis published by The Conversation argues that modern retirement has become far more emotionally and economically complicated than it once was. [Read more…] about More older Americans are staying in work – and facing criticism for it

Are audiences getting tired of superheroes? New research says the answer is more complicated

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For years, superhero movies dominated global entertainment, generating billions of dollars for Hollywood studios and shaping modern pop culture.

But after a string of disappointing releases from Marvel Studios and DC Studios, many fans and critics have started talking about “superhero fatigue”.

New academic research suggests the situation may be more complicated. [Read more…] about Are audiences getting tired of superheroes? New research says the answer is more complicated

FBI reports sharp decline in violent crime across the United States

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Violent crime in the United States fell sharply in 2025, according to new preliminary data released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with murders dropping by an estimated 18.1 percent nationwide.

If the figures are confirmed in final reporting, analysts say the country could record one of the lowest homicide rates in modern American history.

The FBI’s latest estimates also showed broad declines across nearly every major crime category. [Read more…] about FBI reports sharp decline in violent crime across the United States

Missouri lawmakers reject effort to legalize video gambling machines

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Missouri lawmakers have once again rejected efforts to legalize video gambling machines, ending a years-long push to regulate the controversial devices found in gas stations, bars and convenience stores across the state.

According to St. Louis Public Radio, the bipartisan Senate Select Committee on Gaming voted unanimously against the latest proposal on Wednesday, effectively killing the bill for the 2026 legislative session.

The machines – commonly referred to as video lottery terminals, or VLTs – have operated for years in a legal gray area in Missouri. Supporters argued that legalization would allow the state to regulate the machines and collect tax revenue for education programs. [Read more…] about Missouri lawmakers reject effort to legalize video gambling machines

Finland’s reputation for openness is facing growing scrutiny

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Long viewed internationally as one of the world’s most progressive and socially stable countries, Finland is facing growing debate over immigration, racism and national identity as political tensions rise across Europe.

A viewpoint article published by Analyst News argues that Finland’s carefully cultivated international image as a tolerant and egalitarian society is increasingly being challenged by anti-immigration rhetoric, racial tensions and political polarization.

The article, written by British-Bangladeshi journalist Shafi Musaddique, points to several recent controversies involving Finnish politicians and immigration policy. [Read more…] about Finland’s reputation for openness is facing growing scrutiny

Missouri’s Route 66 Neon Park draws visitors ahead of highway centennial

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A growing roadside attraction along Missouri’s stretch of the historic Route 66 is drawing renewed attention ahead of the famous highway’s centennial celebrations next year.

According to travel publication Travel and Tour World, the Route 66 Neon Park in St. Robert has become an increasingly popular stop for travelers exploring the iconic American roadway.

Located at George M. Reed Roadside Park near Interstate 44, the open-air attraction features restored vintage neon signs from old motels, restaurants, gas stations and other businesses that once lined Route 66 through Missouri. [Read more…] about Missouri’s Route 66 Neon Park draws visitors ahead of highway centennial

Motown’s forgotten women are finally getting recognition

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During the 1960s, Motown became one of the most influential music labels in America, producing hits from artists including Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes and The Temptations.

But while the performers became global stars, many of the Black women who helped write, arrange and produce the music remained largely unknown outside the industry.

A new article published by The Conversation argues that several women behind the scenes at Motown played a crucial role in shaping the label’s sound and success, despite receiving little recognition at the time. [Read more…] about Motown’s forgotten women are finally getting recognition